Improving the implementation of cooperative learning: in the case of wolaita sodo university first year students

The objective of this study was to explore the factors affect the implementation of cooperative learning and increase motivation, and interpersonal relationships in first year psychology department students’ classroom. The study involved descriptive survey design. Participants of the study were Wolaita Sodo University, school of education and behavioral science and specifically at department of psychology first year students who are enrolled in the university programs in 2016/17 academic year. Since first year psychology students are 50 in number and grouped into one to five functions. Generally, ten groups were organized. Among ten groups, five groups were selected through random sampling, lottery technique. The data were collected using questionnaire method. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results of descriptive statistics analysis showed that 72% of students were responded that poor communication affect the implementation of cooperative learning. Overall, after the implementation of action strategy, the research showed that cooperative learning bolstered student productivity, as well as increase motivation and interpersonal relations among students.